Want the complete walkthrough? Read our full blocked account guide: step-by-step opening, exact fees, transfers, refunds, screenshots and FAQs. This is the short, myth-busting version.
The single most misunderstood part of moving to Germany is the blocked account (Sperrkonto). Let me clear it up.
What it actually is
It's proof to the German authorities that you can support yourself for a year. For 2025/26 you deposit €11,904, that's €992 per month. Crucially: this is your own money. After you arrive, it's released to you monthly to live on.
Where the lies happen
Agents bundle a "blocked account service" into a package and quote fees in lakhs. The reality: providers like Fintiba or Expatrio charge a small setup fee plus a few euros a month. That's it.
The real costs
- Deposit: €11,904 (yours, returned monthly)
- Provider fee: ~€89 + ~€5/month
- That's the whole story.
Run your own numbers in the cost calculator and don't let anyone sell you fear.